Authors : Onuekwusi Chukwuebuka Emmanuel; Egwim C. Evans; Alhassan Jibrin Dabban; Ameh Sunday Simon; Saidu Aishatu; Muhammad Shuaib Hauwa; Osisami Olubukunola F.; Usman Halima Nakorji

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 1 - January

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/3t3dbhu7

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jan1146

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Many neglected and underutilized crops species have been incorporated locally in human diets since time immemorial, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and many Asian countries where they greatly contribute to food and nutrition security but have been globally underexploited. Underutilized crops such as amaranth, moringa, orange – fleshed sweet potato, snake tomato and spider plant represent a promising frontier for nutraceutical product development due to their rich nutrient and bioactive profiles. These crops hold significant potential to address nutritional deficiencies, diversify food systems, and enhance global food security. Their high concentration of micronutrients, antioxidants, and health – promoting phytochemicals underscore their value beyond conventional staples. Advances in processing technology – including controlled drying, fermentation, extrusion, and strategic fortification – are critical to transforming these crops into stable, safe, and consumer – ready products. Innovations in product development have yielded functional noodles, nutrient – dense snacks, value – added beverages, and ingredient powders that leverage the intrinsic nutraceutical qualities of the raw materials. However, processing often leads to degradation of sensitive bioactives, necessitating targeted strategies such as optimized temperature protocols, encapsulation, and minimal processing to enhance bioactive retention. Economic and sustainability considerations further strengthen the case for valorizing underutilized crops; by integrating local smallholder producers into value chains, reducing post – harvest losses, and creating novel market opportunities, these crops contribute to resilient food systems and equitable rural development. Consumer acceptance studies are essential to gauge sensory preferences, cultural relevance, and market readiness, ensuring product success and widespread adoption. Future prospects include integration into precision nutrition frameworks and expanded nutraceutical product pipelines. Overall, underutilized crops thus offer a viable and innovative pathwway for developing sustainable, health – oriented food products.

Keywords : Bioactive Compounds; Food Processing Technologies; Food Security; Functional Food Products; Nutraceutical Potential; Value Addition; Underutilized Crops.

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